Battery Maintenance Options

[chpthril]

I know you asked Mike, but I think that Xantrex makes very good chargers, but they run a little more expensive too. I have a 20 amp in my boat and have been very pleased.

Xantrex is a great charger....did not mean to exclude them.

[laserfish]

I would definately get the highest amperage you can. 10x2 or 10x3 if you have three batteries. Super addition to your boat for the convenience of just plugging in one plug when you get home and not have to drag out the old chargers and hook them up.

[The Black Widow]

What size deep-cycle are you going to be installing? That Minnkota is 5A per bank, so as long as you will not be installing a large deep-cycle with a lot of Ah's and do not deeply deplete it weekend after weekend.

Is there a battery that you recommend purchasing for the deep cycle? Both of the current batteries are group 24 and they fit well, we may be able to squeeze something slightly larger in if it would make a big difference.

Also, of the 2 that we have in there is there one that is better than the other to keep for the starting? SeaVolt 800 and Centennial 24SM-5MF

[chpthril]

Im partial to Interstate Batteries for a good solid wet cell lead acid. A group-27 is bigger then group-27. A group-29 is only slightly bigger (check each manufacturer's specs) then a 27, so if it will fit, its the best dollar to Ah.